Ingredients:
- 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (optional for extra flavor)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it turns foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Pour the yeast mixture into the flour and mix until a sticky dough forms. If using olive oil or melted butter, add it at this stage.
4. Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
5. First Rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
6. Shape the Dough:
Once risen, punch down the dough to remove excess air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
7. Second Rise:
Cover again and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes until it doubles in size.
8. Bake the Bread:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Cool and Serve:
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Variations:
Herb Bread: Mix in 2 tbsp of dried herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Garlic Bread: Add crushed garlic to the dough or brush with garlic butter before baking.
Whole Wheat Bread: Replace part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier loaf.
Cheese Bread: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
Honey Bread: Swap sugar for honey for a slightly sweet taste.
Tips for Perfect Bread:
Kneading: Proper kneading (8-10 minutes) develops gluten, giving the bread its structure.
Proofing: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place, covered to prevent drying.
Baking: Preheat the oven fully before baking. Placing a pan of water in the oven can create steam for a better crust.
Cooling: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent it from becoming gummy.
Storing: Keep in a bread box or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel. For long-term storage, slice and freeze in an airtight container or bag. Toast frozen slices as needed.
Enjoy your homemade bread!